OpenAI CEO Sam Altman told employees that the company has no control over how the Pentagon uses its AI technology in military operations.

He emphasized that OpenAI does not make decisions about strikes or other battlefield actions once its models are deployed.

The deal came after rival AI company Anthropic refused Pentagon terms over ethical concerns, including potential use in domestic surveillance or autonomous weapons.

Altman acknowledged internally that the contract announcement was rushed and “sloppy,” prompting efforts to clarify safeguards and legal compliance, The Guardian has reported.

The arrangement has drawn criticism from employees and AI ethicists concerned about the military applications of the technology.